Eukaryotic genomic DNA is packed by nucleosomes that consist of histone octamers and 146 bp DNA in eukaryotic cells. Further several nucleosomes form chromatin structure. It is well known that euchromatin is associated with transcription activation whereas heterochromatin is associated with transcription repression. Therefore, nucleosome/chromatin are important for the transcription regulation as well as other cellular mechanisms. The goal of this project is to understand which parameters are important for dynamics of nucleosome using single-molecule optical tweezers.

Course type:

UROP1000 UROP1100 UROP2100 UROP3100 UROP4100

Applicant's Roles:

Preparing DNA template and histone proteins for single-molecule assay. Students will work with other lab members in a collaborative way.

Applicant's Learning Objectives:

Students will learn to how to approach research problems with an analytical approach and develop scientific thinking skills. Students will receive training in modern biochemical, biophysical and molecular biological methods through the project.